This organisation is going beyond the standard e-learning roll out. This includes ensuring employees can access support easily.

Victorians who have made an impact on their local community by providing successful training programs will soon be recognised in an awards ceremony.

Today, Minister for Training and Skills, Gayle Tierney, announced the finalists for the 2017 Victorian Learn Local Awards, which will be held on 31 August.

There is $66,000 to be won across seven categories – excellence in pre-accredited learning; outstanding practitioner; outstanding pathways program; excellence in creating local solutions and AMES Australia diversity innovation.

The Learn Locals program has shown to improve training opportunities across communities in Victoria, providing programs for people of all ages and from all walks of life.

The program also been given a boost the Victorian Government’s $20m Reconnect Program, which provides ‘wrap-around support’ to help Victoria’s most disadvantaged learners access training.

Tierney said Victoria was delivering “a high-quality training system” with TAFEs, community and private providers, which are giving Victorians the opportunity to develop the skills they need to get a job.

“Every Victorian, no matter their background or circumstances, should have access to high quality training and that’s what our Learn Local organisations offer,” she said.

Christie Sinclair, who studied at Banksia Gardens Community Services, Brandylee Muscat, a student in the World of Work program at Berry Street Morwell and Dandenong Neighbourhood House’s Michelle Hood are in the running for the Ro Allen Award, which recognises excellence in pre-accredited learning.

Other finalists include Learn Local teachers Craig Danswan of Campaspe College of Adult Education, Lachlan McKenzie from Jesuit Community College and Leanne Fitzgerald from Coonara Community House.

The awards follow a range of programs rolled out by the Victorian Government which are aimed at building a strong training system and ensuring all Victorians – regardless of age, postcode or background – have access to high-quality training.